VIA Rail notes ridership rise on the Canadian

Between Dec. 20 and Jan. 6, VIA Rail Canada welcomed 14 percent more passengers than last year on its service, The Canadian.

Close to 7,000 passengers traveling on 10 trains chose The Canadian for holiday travel.

"We often think of The Canadian as a memorable way to discover our beautiful country, said Marc Laliberté, President and CEO of VIA Rail. "And it certainly makes for a great family or romantic holiday. But this year, more people than ever before, chose to travel aboard our VIA Rail trains between Toronto, Vancouver and cities in between, making The Canadian a true intercity travel option. Thanks to our employees who have remarkably served our customers and allow them to enjoy a unique experience."

The most popular legs of the journey were (in order of passenger volume) Jasper-Vancouver, Edmonton-Vancouver, Toronto-Winnipeg, Saskatoon-Winnipeg, Edmonton-Winnipeg and Toronto-Vancouver.